RASCL Coffee Hours engage with our communities for the purpose of information sharing and networking. We typically feature a presentation on best practices, emerging topics, new projects or funding opportunities, and more.
Up Next: Marsh Migration: A Survival Mechanism to a Changing Climate and Growing the Sea Floor: Efforts for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) to Support Community Resilience
Thursday, January 8, 2026 | 10:00 am - 11:00 am
Virtual via Zoom
Marsh Migration: A Survival Mechanism to a Changing Climate
Presented by Olivia Allread, Outreach and Communications Coordinator, Wetland Monitoring and Assessment Program, DNREC Division of Watershed Stewardship
Tidal wetlands face serious threats from rapid environmental changes. These critical habitats are challenged by accelerated rates of rising water levels and increased storm surge associated with climate change. In response, these wetlands have adapted a survival mechanism called marsh migration, the act of tidal wetlands moving from their current locations to avoid drowning. Learn about what marsh migration is and gain insight on research DNREC has conducted to better understand the movement of tidal wetlands in Delaware. Discover how better land management decisions and resiliency planning can ensure that wetland habitats have a future along our coasts.
Growing the Sea Floor: Efforts for Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) to Support Community Resilience
Presented by Brittany Haywood, Coastal Ecology Specialist, Delaware Sea Grant
Submerged Aquatic Vegetation (SAV) plays a critical role in healthy waterways, supporting fisheries, improving water quality, and strengthening the lands’ resilience to climate impacts. This presentation introduces what SAV is and why it matters, then highlights ongoing efforts across the state to protect and restore these underwater plant communities. Topics include monitoring efforts such as volunteer-driven programs like SAV Seekers, restoration projects, and small-scale research aimed at better understanding both freshwater and saltwater SAV systems. Together, these efforts help build more resilient coastal and inland communities by strengthening the habitats beneath the surface.
Past presentations are available below. Virtual Coffee Hours are recorded and are available here.